A residence
without a home security alarm is three times as likely to be broken
into as one with an alarm. Having a home security alarm in place
not only makes you less likely to be the victim of a burglary, but
also it gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you
are protecting your family. Basic
Features of Alarm Systems:
Before selecting a home security alarm, it helps if you know the
basic features of most alarms. The following are the most common
parts of a home security alarm: Control Panel. This is the box where
your wiring ends and where you will find the battery backup. Key-pad.
This is the where you turn your alarm system on and off. Alarm.
Usually a loud siren, this is the sound that alerts you to an intruder.
Motion Detector- Motion detectors are usually placed inside the
home. These are the devices that detect movement. In order to help
prevent false alarms, there are specially-made motion detectors
for people who have pets. Contacts. These are magnetic contacts
for doors and windows. When placed between a door and door frame,
or a window and window sill, contacts create a circuit. When the
door or window is opened, it breaks the circuit and triggers the
alarm. Monitoring Station. A monitoring station is not located in
the home. This is the 24-hour center from which your alarm is monitored.
If the alarm is triggered, staff at the monitoring station will
send police, fire and medical services. Not all alarm systems come
with monitoring, but it can be added to most systems for a monthly
fee.
Top
Brands:
Because home security alarms are constantly changing, there is little
use in knowing the top five models today. By tomorrow the best alarms
available may be different. It does help, however, to know the top
brands on the market because these brands produce many of the high-quality,
reliable alarm systems.
Ademco
Rokonet
When
selecting a home security alarm, consider your budget and the location
you have available for component installation. You may find that
you need wireless instead of hard-wired, or that there are optional
components necessary for your home. With alarm systems constantly
evolving, it’s best to look for the top brands, and be certain to
look at the specifications for each system.
